Published: Abril 22 2023

Today we will talk about IUD Intrauterine Devices What are they and what are their indications?

The IUD is an intrauterine device that is used primarily for Family planning irreversible type, long duration, and highly effective.

Although now we also use them in dysfunctional bleeding.

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At Dra. Gómez Roig Institute We inform you about the different intra-uterine devices.

What types of IUDs are there?

There are 2 types of intrauterine devices: copper and hormonal.

copper IUD: This device is made from a T-shaped plastic, covered in the medial area by copper.
hormonal IUD: It is a T-shaped plastic device that has a device that releases a daily dose of hormone called progesterone.

None of these devices prevent sexually transmitted infections.

How does the IUD intrauterine device work?

Its mechanism of action also depends on the type of device. However all IUD when inserted into the uterine cavity, they produce an aseptic inflammatory response of the endometrium with the production of an unfavorable ecosystem for implantation.

copper IUD: In addition to the inflammatory response discussed above, prostaglandins are also produced that alter metabolism and increase estrogen in the uterine mucosa. They alter cervical mucus and have a spermicidal action and inhibit sperm uptake.

Hormonal IUD: The base of this IUD is progesterone, a minimum amount of this hormone is released daily, which inhibits ovulation and also has a local effect by preventing the endometrium (inner layer of the uterus) from growing, producing glandular atrophy.

How safe is the IUD intrauterine device?

The contraceptive efficacy of IUDs is greater than 97%, they are highly effective.

Which IUD is fattening?

There is no conclusive scientific evidence that the use of IUDs causes weight gain.

The Copper IUDThey do not have hormones, and are not associated with weight gain.

Some studies that have been carried out with planning methods that are hormonal find that there may be a slight fluid retention associated with hormones.

What are the side effects of the IUD?

The most common side effect related to the use of the IUD is the change in the period.

The hormonal IUD they can cause periods to become increasingly rare and infrequent and spotting or irregular bleeding can sometimes occur during the first few months of use that disappears with time. Sometimes the period disappears completely and that is why these devices are used in dysfunctional bleeding.

Other side effects in hormonal devices are:

Headache.
Acne
Tender breasts.
Changes in mood
Menstrual cramps or pain in the pelvic area

With the Copper IUD It is related to more abundant and prolonged bleeding.

As well is related to a greater number of genital infections or pelvics.

In some cases they can also be expelled for what must be reinserted.

What should I do before inserting the IUD?

Before inserting the IUD your doctor should perform the following steps:

Detailed Medical History
Bimanual inspection and palpation
Have an updated previous cytology or perform it before insertion.
Your doctor should inform you about the IUD, complications, insertion, and subsequent controls.
An informed consent must be signed prior to placement of the device.

When should an IUD intrauterine device be placed?

EL IUD intrauterine device It can be placed at any time of the menstrual cycle.

However, it is recommended to do it in the first days of the period, since the cervix is a little more open.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe vaginal tablets prior to insertion.

Do you need to take an antibiotic before or after IUD insertion?

The studies do not recommend prior prophylaxis or after IUD insertion, if it is done with adequate asepsis.

Do I have to follow any recommendations after IUD insertion?

It is recommended that in the week after the insertion, sexual intercourse, use of tampons or immersion baths such as swimming pools should be avoided.

How should I do the checkups after IUD insertion?

At Gomez Roig Institute we recommend a visit after the first month after the insertion where a clinical and ultrasound control is carried out and possible complications and acceptance of the method are assessed.

Afterwards, the usual annual controls will be carried out.

How long does the IUD last?

The duration of the IUD depends on the type but ranges from 3, 5 and 10 years.

After the age of 40, it is not necessary to change the IUD and it can be left in until menopause.

How soon does fertility return after IUD use?

The IUD is a reversible method of contraception.

After it has been removed, fertility will return to its natural level immediately.

What happens if I want to remove the IUD, when can I do it?

El IUD it can be extracted at any time of the cycle, you have to locate the threads and pull them.

In few occasions the threads are not found and a special forceps has to be used to locate the device and in rare occasions a hysteroscopy has to be performed for its removal.

At Dra. Gómez Roig Institute We will clarify any doubts that may arise about the different methods of Family planning and IUD types.

A professional and human accompaniment is our way of working. Do not hesitate to contact us if you need it.

IUD Intrauterine Devices